Images and Representations Approach

These two images relay the importance of the feminist approach dealing with images and representations, mostly within popular culture. The image on the left is a famous cover photo of former president Bill Clinton with his hands on his knees making them look abnormally large. This reflects how much masculine power he holds, and he looks as if he is ready to take on the world and its problems. Halle Berry, a well-known sex symbol in our society, is mocking this cover shoot of Clinton in the same suit, but in a more provocative style. Her hands are instead resting on her thighs, and a woman's thighs are the body part that is the focus of womanly power. However, although Halle Berry may be seen as solely a sex symbol to some, this image could be seen as oppressive, as it would ignore the reality of her life. The main controversy over this image as well as Esquire as a whole, is whether or not it should be seen as a feminist magazine. As one views this image, they are led to believe it is feminist and that feminism is what of the characteristics the magazine stands for, but it takes more than one strong and unique woman on the cover of one issue to make it a feminist magazine.

Considering about 60% of women in America self-identify as feminists, is feminism really all about the emasculation of men? Aren't they more subtle than "wanting to blame you for everything?"